About Us, an online platform for building digital skills, has partnered with Facebook to provide free workshops in 13 towns throughout New Zealand.

#BoostYourTown, launched yesterday in Kaitaia as part of Techweek, is a new initiative to elevate the online presence of regional areas.

Workshops will take place in towns in Northland, Whanganui, Taranaki, Waikato and West Coast.

The workshops provide local business owners and community group leaders with the latest training and advice for building new connections, reaching new customers and are designed for people new to online as well as those wanting more advanced skills.

About Us founder Steve Adams says, “#BoostYourTown aims to capitalise on the global reach of Facebook and Instagram to elevate the online presence of regional communities, putting towns ‘on the map' and attracting more visitors and customers.

Workshop participants also receive access to online learning resources and communities so they continue to build their knowledge and confidence.

John Carter, Mayor of the Far North District Council, helping launch the first workshop in Kaitaia, says, “We all understand how important it is for businesses and community groups to have an effective online presence these days.

“BoostYourTown aims to help individuals and groups in towns like Kaitaia boost their online links and use these to better achieve their goals.”

Boost Your Town builds on successful ‘Boost Your Business' events run in North Harbour, Newmarket, Franz Josef and Wellington during 2016 and 2017.

Facebook NZ head Spencer Bailey says, “#BoostYourTown aims to lift the capacity of regional communities to participate and thrive in the digital economy.

“Partnering with AboutUs means more business owners throughout New Zealand will receive hands-on advice and training to sharpen their digital skills.